Amateur-built SKYRAIDER I N8109E accident near Erwin, North Carolina

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind which resulted in a loss of directional control.

NTSB analysis

The pilot/owner reported that he was departing on his first flight in the experimental airplane he had just purchased. He began the takeoff roll to the west and the wind pushed the airplane towards the right side of the runway. He attempted to correct with left rudder, but the airplane continued to the right. He then added left aileron, but the airplane continued right and the right wing struck a tree limb. According to the pilot, "The next thing I knew I was on the ground."

The pilot reported he had 200 total hours of flight experience, and that his experience was divided between both certified and experimental airplanes. He stated that his airplane had no mechanical deficiencies that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA16CA134 for the full record.